Ubud skyline - Indonesia
Indonesia

Living in Ubud

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

NomadIQ

7.8/10

Monthly

$1,026

Safety

6.9/10

Country

Indonesia

Monthly Cost

$1,026

Internet

85 Mbps

Safety

6.9/10

Rent (1BR)

$575

Living in Ubud — Quick Take

Best for: Budget-conscious remote workers

Cost level: Low ($1,026/mo)

Main downside: Language barrier for newcomers

Quick Facts

Monthly Budget

$1,026/mo

Low
Security

6.9/10

Average
WiFi Speed

85 Mbps

Fast
1BR Rent

$575

Cheap
Local Wages

$177/mo

Residents

75K

Mid-size
Updated for 2026Based on real cost data

Monthly Living Cost Breakdown

Rent (1 Bedroom)
$575
Rent (Family)
$2,125
Groceries
$260
Transport
$50
Healthcare
$120
Internet
$21
Estimated Total (Single)$1,026/mo

Who Is Ubud For?

Remote workersGood fit

Reasonable costs and workable internet make it practical for remote work.

FamiliesWorth considering

Safety levels and housing options can accommodate families.

Budget-ConsciousStrong fit

At around $1,026/month, this is one of the more affordable options.

RetireesCould work

Reasonable living costs and safety make it viable for retirement.

Want more amenities? Krakow offers a higher standard.

Best Neighborhoods in Ubud

4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Penestanan tops the list at /10

A peaceful and artistic neighborhood in Ubud, popular among digital nomads and creatives, featuring yoga studios, coworking spaces, cafes, and scenic rice field surroundings.

Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Ubud, Indonesia.

Pros and Cons of Living in Ubud

Pros

  • Very affordable cost of living - ideal for budget-conscious expats
  • Generally safe for expats with normal precautions
  • Adequate internet speed for most remote work needs
  • High NomadIQ score (7.8/10) - excellent for digital nomads

Cons

  • No major drawbacks identified based on available data

Job & Income Overview

Avg Local Salary

$177/mo

Salary-to-Rent Ratio

0.3x

Housing costs are high relative to local wages. Remote income or savings help.

The average local salary doesn't fully cover typical expat expenses. Supplemental income is common.

Cost Insight

Ubud is one of the more affordable options for expats. Your money stretches further here.

That's 273% cheaper than Krakow at $3,823/month.

Common Questions About Ubud

How much does it cost to live in Ubud?

Around $1,026/month for a single person, covering rent, food, and basics. Lifestyle choices affect the final number.

Is Ubud safe for expats?

Ubud is reasonably safe with normal precautions with a 6.9/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.

Is Ubud good for remote workers?

With 85 Mbps average speeds, Ubud is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.

How much is rent in Ubud?

A 1-bedroom averages $575/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.

Calculate Your Cost in Ubud

Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle

Explore More About Ubud

NomadIQ Score

7.8

out of 10

Very Good

Quick Stats

Safety Score

6.9/10

Internet Speed

85 Mbps

Monthly Cost

$1,026

Explore Similar Cities

Also in Indonesia

Final Thoughts

Ubud is highly recommended for digital nomads and expats looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,026, a safety score of 6.9/10, and internet speeds of 85 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Ubud deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.

Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.